Computer-Related Health Problems

More than 60% of American households have personal computers for the whole family to use, and more than 80% (and rising) of all jobs out there require basic computer usage. With these figures, it's no wonder that millions of Americans each year are afflicted with mysterious ailments, which can be linked back to misuse and overuse of computers. This problem is most commonly known as "Repetitive Strain Injury" or RSI.

are you suffering?

If you regularly use a computer for more than 2 hours per day; if you're overweight, diabetic or arthritic; have poor back posture; sit for long periods of time; and smoke, then you are at high risk of developing RSI.

Most of the time, the symptoms of RSI are so subtle and evasive that 80% of people who suffer from it don't even know that they do. In order to find out if you actually have it, refer to the list of most common symptoms, below (taken from www.rsihelp.com):

Waking up with wrist pain or numb hands, especially during early morning hours

Lack of control or coordination

Cold hands

Frequent self-massage

Difficulty buttoning clothing or putting on jewelry

Tremors

Avoidance of activities or sports that were once enjoyable

Pain or soreness (although RSI is not always painful)

it's all about ergonomics

The right placement of your chair, desk, mouse, keyboard, and computer screen will help make all the difference in the world when it comes down to preventing RSI. Follow these tips and free yourself of a lifelong struggle with pain:

The computer area Keep your computer area organized. Items that you use frequently should remain close to you so you don't have to reach and knock over your coffee. Avoid stuffing things under the desk so you can stretch your legs.

Sitting down with good posture When you're about to sit, aim your buns for where the back of the chair and the seat meet. This should start you off in a good sitting position. Sit up straight and try to keep your hips, shoulders and ears in a straight line.

Feet should touch the floor If your feet don't touch the ground, lower your chair. If your chair can't be lowered or if it puts you in a position where you're looking up at your monitor, consider a footrest.

Support the lumbar area Make sure your lower back is supported in order to help maintain the lumbar curve.

More tips for keeping yourself in tiptop shape while surfing the Net...